VIDEO: Michael Murphy, CEO of Grayling, on PR professionals and start-up firms

On his network in this region, Murphy stressed that Grayling was “far too small” and he is determined to grow the business. He also spoke about making acquisitions and hiring more staff in Singapore, Hong Kong and China.

Murphy also dispensed advice to would-be and young PR professionals on what they should be looking out for.

He noted: “My advice would be the same as it has always been – listen more than you talk. Because PR people are known to like the sound of their own voice. My view is that the best counsellors in communications are those that really listen and understand the client’s problems.”

“The second thing I would say is to use research to really inform your recommendations to clients. With the Internet and the ability to research much easier and more cost effectively than the past, there is the ability to ensure what you recommend to clients is absolutely grounded in strong research and information,” added Murphy.

“The last thing I would say is to be ambitious; the world is your oyster. The world is a smaller and smaller place. There are opportunities for people to gain experience out of their home market, to learn new things and then come back. I’d encourage young people to travel, to work in other countries and then take that experience back home.”

Lastly, having started and run a number of PR businesses, Murphy had some advice for PR executives who have launched their own firms.

“You need to be not just good at public relations and public affairs. You need to be a good business person,” said Murphy.